Planning commission hears comp‑plan survey launch; council extends transient‑occupancy tax allocation

Planning staff told the commission the city’s comprehensive‑plan survey is live and promoted via the city Facebook page and the Gazette; staff asked commissioners to encourage public participation and noted a public input open‑house on Aug. 27 at the School Board office (beginning about 5:30 p.m.) with several staffed stations. Staff said the contract provides for three or four public input sessions and that commissioners may be enlisted to assist at stations.

Commissioner Leslie reported on recent City Council actions. Council held a public hearing on the mini‑warehouse zoning amendment and passed it unanimously, 5–0, with no public comment. Leslie also said the 1% transient‑occupancy tax that had supported the horse center while it carried debt will be continued and redirected toward Main Street after the horse center’s debt was repaid last month; Leslie said staff and the commissioner of revenue will coordinate implementation and distribution details. Leslie also noted upcoming work sessions and a North Main Street improvements event with the Virginia Secretary of Transportation on Aug. 27 at 10:30 a.m.

There were no public comments during the meeting. The commission adjourned after brief planning and council reports.